Natasha ShadeannaPublic holiday weekends do not come around as often as we’d like it to. But over this coming 2020’s Chinese New Year, we’re gifted with a long weekend! If you’re not celebrating, what better thing to do than to travel to hop on a flight or ferry for a quick micro trip? Here are some neighbouring destinations in Asia you can take a last-minute trip to this upcoming CNY long weekend — with estimated prices for flights, ferries and accommodations included!
1. Bangkok, Thailand
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Why not whisk yourself away to the playful city of Bangkok for a little recharge? Less than 3 hours away from Singapore by flight, Bangkok is the perfect place to spend some time shopping, partying and best of all, for some well needed massages! Indulge in incredible and authentic Thai cuisine as you wander the enchanting streets and nightlife of this exhilarating city.
Also read: Bangkok Old Town: The Ultimate Guide to What to See, Do and Eat!
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For a weekend stay at Solitaire Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 for the weekend, with flights included, you will have to spend an estimated S$590. This luxurious 4.5-star property is filled with amenities including a rooftop terrace, spa services and more. For a stay at local hostels however, you will have to spend an estimated S$400 (flight included)!
Travel time: 2.5 hours by flight
Estimated cost (inc. flight and accommodation): S$400 – $600
2. Kuala Lumpur
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Kuala Lumpur is also another neighbouring city you could go to to spend some time away from home! Expect a glorious weekend of filling your stomach with scrumptious food and a pulsating nightlife.
Also read: 18 Must-Visit Attractions in Kuala Lumpur
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If you’re looking to splurge, you can book a weekend stay at the Hotel Istana Kuala Lumpur City Center, with flights included, for S$430. This 5 star hotel features a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, sauna and more. For a more wallet-friendly stay at its local hotels, you will have to spend an estimate of S$270, with flight prices included.
Travel time: 1 hour by flight
Estimated cost (inc. flight and accommodation): S$270 – S$450
3. Phuket, Thailand
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Has anyone ever said no to a beach escape? Phuket is home to white sandy beaches and lively fun-loving towns. Pop open a coconut and lay by the beach as you spend your time relaxing this lunar new year!
Also read: 10 Fun & Free Things to Do in Phuket
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A stay at Stay Wellbeing & Lifestyle Resort, a luxury hotel, with flight prices included will cost you an estimated S$620. Located by Rawai Beach, this 5-star property features four outdoor swimming pools, two restaurants and more. However, you can cut costs by staying at one of the local hostels. Inclusive of flights, this trip will cost you about S$310.
Travel time: 1 hour 50 mins by flight
Estimated cost (inc. flight and accommodation): S$310 – S$650
4. Cebu City, Philippines
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Located right in the heart of the Philippines, Cebu City is home to 167 surrounding islands and islets. If you are looking to enjoy nature and all the wonders it has to offer, then Cebu is your pick. With waterfalls and blossoming wildlife, you’re guaranteed a great time here.
Also read: Top 20 Things to Do in Cebu for First Time Visitors
Image credit: Radisson Blu Cebu
For those looking for an upscale stay, the Radisson Blu Cebu, a 5-star property featuring an outdoor pool, sauna and more, is right up your alley and it will cost you S$913. You can also unwind with a drink in hand at one of the hotel’s bars, including three bars and a poolside bar. If you want the most bang for buck, stay in one of the many local hostels which will set you back by an estimated S$460, flight fares included.
Travel time: 3 hours 50 mins by flight
Estimated cost (inc. flight and accommodation): S$460 – S$950
5. Krabi, Thailand
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Another island you could consider is Krabi, widely regarded as a tropical paradise. Boasting incredible natural scenery and limestone cliffs, Krabi is an exciting choice! Home to many beaches, you could beach hop without even leaving the island.
Also read: Best Budget Villas and Resorts in Krabi, Thailand
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Enjoy the best time in this slice of paradise and with a luxurious stay at the Centara Anda Dhevi Resort and Spa, an eco-friendly 4-star property which features a waterslide, two bars, a swim-up bar and a coffee shop in its premises, to name a few. A stay here over the CNY weekend will cost about S$560. For a more inexpensive alternative, take your pick from the many local hostels on the island will total an estimated S$400 in total.
Travel time: 1 hour 40 mins by flight
Estimated cost (inc. flight and accommodation): S$400 – $560
6. Taipei, Taiwan
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Home to a number of impressive cultural buildings, marvelous drool-worthy street food and a bustling nightlife, Taiwan is another great choice for a weekend getaway.
Also read: 2020 Taiwan Cherry Blossoms Forecast: Where & When to Catch Them?
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Rewind after a day of sightseeing at the Taipei Garden Hotel, a 4.5 star property where you can enjoy a luxurious weekend relaxing. Inclusive of flights, this will set you back an estimated S$720. For a more budget-friendly stay at a local hostel, expect to fork out a total of S$480 for a weekend stay (flight fares included).
Travel time: 4 hours 40 mins by flight
Estimated cost (inc. flight and accommodation): S$480 – S$750
7. Bintan Island, Indonesia
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Forget flying: hop onboard a ferry and head on to Bintan Island! Located in North Indonesia, this idyllic island is famous for its golf courses, private beaches and a wide array of water sports.
Unlike the other destinations on this list, Bintan is the nearest island to Singapore, accessible by ferry making it easy to go and get back from! The price for a round trip ferry ticket from Singapore ranges from S$70 to S$130, depending on the time that you depart and the time you want to return.
Also read: 8 of Bintan’s Coolest New Hotels Perfect for a Dreamy Weekend Escape
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Pamper yourself with a luxe stay at Indra Maya Pool Villas, an upscale 5-star hotel; a stay during the long weekend will cost you roughly S$1,400. The hotel offers 14 private, luxurious rooms with private pools and 5 different restaurants on the premises. A more inexpensive stay in one of the local hotels or hostels during the same weekend will go only for an estimated S$50!
Travel time: 1 hour by ferry
Estimated cost (inc. ferry and accommodation): S$150 – S$1,500
